Mendip Hills National Landscape – Limestone Ridges, Gorges, and Open Plateaus

A Karst Landscape Shaped by Uplift, Erosion, and Underground Water

The Mendip Hills National Landscape lies primarily in Somerset, in South West England, rising south of Bristol and north of the Somerset Levels. This protected upland forms a long limestone ridge overlooking the surrounding lowlands and is defined by its geology as much as its surface scenery.

Walking in the Mendip Hills is shaped by limestone terrain and elevation. Open hilltop routes cross exposed plateaus with far-reaching views, while deep combes and gorges cut through the ridge, offering dramatic contrasts between open uplands and sheltered woodland. The variety of terrain allows walkers to combine expansive ridge walking with intimate valley routes.

Geology lies at the heart of the Mendip walking experience. The hills are riddled with caves, sinkholes, and underground rivers, creating one of the most important karst landscapes in the UK. While most caves lie hidden beneath the surface, features such as Cheddar Gorge reveal the scale and drama of erosion above ground.

Away from the main ridge, quieter routes follow dry stone walls, ancient trackways, and grassy slopes dotted with limestone outcrops. Traditional farmland, flower-rich grassland, and old lead mining sites add layers of history and biodiversity to the walking experience.

Village-based walking is well established across the Mendips. Settlements such as Cheddar, Wells, and Priddy sit close to walking routes, making it easy to plan linear or circular itineraries linking ridge tops, gorges, and valleys.

Beyond walking, the Mendip Hills support a range of low-impact outdoor adventures. Cycling follows quiet lanes across the plateau, while caving and climbing are long-established activities in designated areas. Wildlife watching is rewarding, particularly across limestone grassland rich in orchids, butterflies, and birdlife.

Accommodation across the National Landscape includes rural inns, country pubs with rooms, farm stays, guesthouses, and small hotels. Many bases sit directly on walking routes, allowing visitors to explore the Mendips on foot and experience the landscape at a slower pace.

For walkers seeking dramatic limestone scenery, geological interest, and wide views across Somerset and beyond, the Mendip Hills National Landscape offers one of South West England’s most distinctive and rewarding inland walking destinations.

Where to Walk and Explore

Limestone Ridge & Plateau Walking

Open hilltop routes with far-reaching views across Somerset and the Bristol Channel.

Gorges & Wooded Valleys

Steep-sided walking through dramatic limestone gorges and sheltered woodland.

Ancient Tracks & Dry Stone Landscapes

Historic paths crossing grassland, mining remains, and traditional farmland.

Cave Country & Karst Features

Walking routes passing sinkholes, cave entrances, and exposed limestone formations.

Village-Based Routes

Circular and linear walks linking villages, gorges, and open uplands.

Adventure Highlights

• Limestone plateau and ridge walking
• Dramatic gorges including Cheddar Gorge
• One of the UK’s most important karst landscapes
• Flower-rich limestone grasslands
• Long views across Somerset and the Bristol Channel
• Quiet inland walking with strong geological character